6 Important Things to Check Before Scheduling a Service Call

Let’s set the scene: it’s hot out, and you and your family have been enjoying your air conditioning non-stop since the summer began. Everything seems great, your home is staying cool and comfortable regardless of the temperature outside, and everyone is just grateful to have a refuge from the summer sun. Then one day your home doesn’t feel quite so cool in the afternoon heat, and as the day goes on your home slowly starts to feel unusually warm and stuffy. Suddenly that system you barely ever have to think about is now at the forefront of your mind, and all your other plans have come to a screeching halt.

No matter how great your HVAC repair technician may be, nobody wants to be stuck with an A/C repair, especially in the summer heat. However, before you pick up the phone and give us a call, we’ve got a few troubleshooting tricks to have on your HVAC checklist to try first. Because the only thing worse than an A/C repair is waiting around for a service technician only to find out you didn’t need to call in the first place.

Check Your Thermostat

First things first, check the settings on your thermostat. Your thermostat is the control center for your HVAC system, and sometimes it’s easy to overlook a simple setting change, especially if you aren’t the only one in a house.

Most newer thermostat models will also display error messages with instructions to follow if there is an issue with your system, so it’s important to check the display periodically to make sure everything is running correctly. Also, be sure to check the manual if you aren’t sure about a setting, or ask your service technician during your next routine maintenance for help!

Check Your Thermostat Batteries

If your thermostat isn’t lighting up, it might need a new change of batteries. Many homeowners might not realize that their thermostat needs them, but if the display doesn’t light up then this could be the issue. This is a simple fix that doesn’t require a technician to visit and can save you a lot of time.

Check Your Circuit Breakers

If your thermostat is working, and your unit still isn’t, check the circuit breaker or fuse box. Many homeowners do this automatically anyway, but it’s still an important and helpful step. Unexpected power surges and outages can burn out or trip your system’s fuse, cutting off power to the unit and leaving you with an uncomfortably hot home. This is another quick solution that may save you a lot of hassle.

Check Your Filters

Your HVAC system relies on airflow to function, and a blocked filter can not only make your system work harder just to cool your home, but it will also cost you money in costly repairs and electric bills down the road. If you can’t feel air coming from the registers, or you notice ice on the refrigerant lines and coil, then a lack of airflow may be the problem. Your air filters should be changed at least every 30 days or so (or more frequently depending on your home situation) especially in the months that see frequent or heavy use. Regularly changing your filters can help your HVAC system last longer and run more efficiently, saving you money and keeping your air clean to boot!

While you’re at it, make sure that the air return is unobstructed and open up those vents, even in the rooms that aren’t being used. Your system will appreciate it, and so will your wallet.

Check Indoor and Outdoor Switches

HVAC units have switches on the indoor air handler and outdoor unit. It’s possible that something or someone may have flipped one of the switches, either by accident or without realizing what it does. If this sounds like something that could have happened to you, then make sure to check it before calling. And remember, safety first!

Check the Drain Line for Obstructions

Indoor coils typically have an emergency cutoff or float switch, either attached to the drip pan or built into the drain line. These simple mechanisms prevent water damage by shutting off the condenser coil and stopping condensation from occurring. The downside of this, however, is that a blocked drain line means your unit can’t keep you cool. If your unit isn’t running, even though the thermostat and unit have power, you might have a drainage issue. Check the drain pan and drain line for standing water, and try to flush or clear the drain line if possible.

If you’ve checked all of these off your HVAC checklist and you still can’t find the problem, then it’s time to call the professionals. At A/C Masters, taking care of our customers is what we do. We’ll come out and get your unit running as soon as possible that way you can get back to enjoying the things that really matter. Because A/C repairs are hassle enough, so why settle for less than the best?

And of course, one of the best ways to prevent costly repair calls is to have regular maintenance on your HVAC system, that way you can catch those issues before they ruin your summer. 

A/C Masters is here for any of your HVAC related needs, year-round! Give us a call at (757) 898-2894 to schedule your appointment today! 

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